These days, we’re all living more and more online. From working from home, to binge-watching your favorite shows, battling it out in online games, or running a business, a good internet connection isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’ anymore – it’s a must-have. If you’re in Zimbabwe, fiber internet is probably your best bet for getting that super-fast, reliable connection you need. But how do you actually get fiber in Zimbabwe? Don’t worry, this guide breaks it all down for you, from checking if it’s available in your area and getting it installed, to figuring out which provider is the perfect fit for you.
What is Fibre Internet and Why is it Better?
Fibre internet is a high-speed broadband technology that uses optical fibre cables to transmit data. Unlike traditional DSL or mobile internet, fibre provides faster speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability. It is ideal for activities like video conferencing, 4K streaming, and cloud-based work, making it the best option for homes and businesses in Zimbabwe.
Benefits of Fibre Internet in Zimbabwe
- Faster Speeds – Fibre connections can reach speeds of up to 1Gbps, making it much faster than traditional broadband or mobile internet.
- More Reliable – Unlike mobile networks that may be affected by congestion or bad weather, fibre internet is more stable and consistent.
- Lower Latency – Great for gaming, video calls, and real-time applications.
- Better for Multiple Users – Ideal for households or offices where multiple people are connected simultaneously.
Where is Fibre Internet Available in Zimbabwe?
Fibre internet is gradually expanding across Zimbabwe, mainly in major cities and urban areas. Some of the areas with fibre coverage include:
- Harare – Most suburbs and business districts have fibre connectivity.
- Bulawayo – The second-largest city has a growing fibre network.
- Mutare – Some providers have rolled out fibre connections.
- Gweru, Masvingo, and Kwekwe – Limited fibre availability but expanding.
For those in rural areas, options may be limited, but some companies are working to extend fibre coverage.
Best Fibre Internet Providers in Zimbabwe
Several internet service providers (ISPs) offer fibre internet in Zimbabwe. Here are some of the best options:
Liquid Home (ZOL)
Liquid Home, formerly known as ZOL (Zimbabwe Online), is one of the largest fibre internet providers in Zimbabwe. It operates under Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a leading telecommunications company in Africa. Liquid Home offers a variety of fibre internet packages tailored for both residential and business users, delivering high-speed, reliable connectivity across the country. Their Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) and Fibre-to-the-Business (FTTB) solutions provide speeds ranging from 10Mbps to over 100Mbps, depending on the selected package. The company is known for its extensive fibre network coverage, flexible data packages, and 24/7 customer support. Liquid Home also provides value-added services such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and Wi-Fi solutions, making it a preferred choice for many households and businesses in Zimbabwe.
TelOne
TelOne is Zimbabwe’s state-owned telecommunications company and one of the most reliable providers of fibre internet in the country. Known for its competitive pricing, TelOne has made fibre internet accessible to many homes and businesses. Their broadband services include the Blaze Fibre packages, offering speeds from 5Mbps up to 100Mbps. One of TelOne’s biggest strengths is its nationwide fibre infrastructure, making it possible to reach areas that other providers might not cover. Additionally, TelOne offers bundle deals that combine internet, telephone, and digital entertainment services. With its government backing, TelOne has been able to expand its fibre network consistently, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for affordable yet high-quality fibre internet in Zimbabwe.
Utande
Utande is another player in Zimbabwe’s fibre internet market, offering high-speed broadband services for both residential and business users. The company is well-known for providing customized connectivity solutions tailored to different user needs. Utande focuses on reliability and customer satisfaction, often providing dedicated internet solutions for businesses that require stable and uninterrupted connections. Their support team is also highly rated, making it a preferred choice for corporate clients who need robust internet infrastructure.
Dandemutande
Dandemutande is a long-standing telecommunications provider in Zimbabwe, specializing in broadband and enterprise solutions. Their fibre internet services support both businesses and residential users, providing high-speed, reliable connections. The company is known for its focus on customer support and technical assistance, making sure that users get the most out of their fibre connections. Dandemutande has been expanding its network coverage across the country, bringing fibre internet to previously underserved areas. In addition to standard fibre internet packages, they also offer managed IT services, cloud computing, and data security solutions, making them a go-to provider for businesses that need more than just internet access.
Powertel
Powertel, a subsidiary of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), is gradually expanding its fibre network across the country. While it may not be as dominant as Liquid Home or TelOne, Powertel has been making significant strides in improving its service offerings. The company provides fibre internet solutions for both businesses and homes, with competitive pricing and growing coverage in urban and peri-urban areas. One of its advantages is its integration with ZESA infrastructure, allowing it to expand its network through existing power line corridors.
Before choosing a provider, check their coverage in your area and compare packages.
Also Read: 10 Tips to Boost Your Internet at Home (For Router Owners)
How to Apply for Fibre Internet in Zimbabwe
Step 1: Check Fibre Availability
Before anything else, confirm if fibre internet is available in your area. You can do this by:
- Visiting the website of your preferred ISP and checking their coverage map.
- Calling the ISP’s customer service for verification.
- Asking neighbors or local businesses if they have fibre connections.
Step 2: Choose a Fibre Package
Once you’ve confirmed availability, select an internet package based on your needs. Consider the following:
- Speed – Choose a plan that suits your usage (e.g., 10Mbps, 50Mbps, or 100Mbps).
- Data Limits – Some packages are unlimited, while others have data caps.
- Price – Compare costs from different providers to find the best deal.
- Installation Fees – Some providers charge for installation, while others offer promotions with free setup.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can apply online, via phone, or by visiting the ISP’s customer service office. Provide your details, including:
- Full name and contact information.
- Physical address for installation.
- Chosen fibre package.
Step 4: Installation Process
- Once approved, the ISP will send technicians to install fibre cables to your home or office.
- Installation usually takes a few hours to a couple of days, depending on complexity.
- You may need a router (some providers include this in their package).
Step 5: Activate Your Connection
Once installation is complete, the ISP will activate your service, and you can start enjoying high-speed internet.
How Much Does Fibre Internet Cost in Zimbabwe?
Fibre internet pricing depends on the provider and package. Here’s an estimate of fibre internet costs in Zimbabwe:
| Package | Speed | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plan | 10Mbps | $30 – $50 |
| Standard Plan | 20-50Mbps | $50 – $100 |
| Premium Plan | 100Mbps+ | $100+ |
Some ISPs offer promotional deals, so always check for discounts or bundled packages.
How to Maintain and Optimize Your Fibre Internet
Even after getting fibre internet, you want to achieve optimal performance. Here are some tips:
- Use a High-Quality Router – A good router improves WiFi speed and coverage.
- Place Your Router Strategically – Avoid obstructions and interference from electronic devices.
- Limit Background Applications – Close unnecessary apps that consume bandwidth.
- Regularly Restart Your Router – Helps clear network congestion and improve performance.
- Upgrade When Necessary – If multiple users experience slow speeds, consider upgrading your package.
Is Fibre Internet in Zimbabwe Worth It?
So, if you’re in Zimbabwe and tired of slow, unreliable internet, getting fiber is a game-changer. It’s one of the best things you can do for yourself online. If you’re running a business, studying, or just love streaming movies, fiber offers a speed and stability that mobile data and DSL just can’t touch. Do your homework, pick the right provider and plan that fits your needs, and make sure your setup is optimized. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be enjoying seamless internet for everything – work, play, and staying connected with friends and family.
